Morgan & Bennett
Things To Do
Goofy Golf
Morgan and her family have been playing putt putt at Goofy Golf since before she could walk. This is an old school, cash-only establishment in the heart of Fort Walton Beach. Many of the mechanical pieces are no longer working and the courses are a bit hokey, but that's the beauty of it. Goofy Golf is a must.
Downtown Fort Walton Beach
There are a number of cute little dives, restaurants, and activities in downtown FWB! Personal favorites include The Boardroom Pub & Grub, Coaster's (Morgan's cousin Chris designed the back, called The Bevador Room), KC's Sandbar & Grille, the Indian Temple Mound (this was always a fun time as a kid), Taste Tapas & Wine Bar, The Ratchet Hatchet (for all you axe throwers), Salty Duck, and last but certainly not least: Suds 'n Cinema, an old school movie theatre with a balcony and really reasonable snack and meal options!
Okaloosa Island
Okaloosa Island is a narrow three-mile stretch connecting the cities of Fort Walton Beach and Destin, Florida. If you go the 'long way' (Morgan's preference) between Sandestin and Shalimar you'll have to cross it. One side of the road has beaches facing the Choctawhatchee Bay (shallow/calm water, no waves) and the other opens up to the Gulf of Mexico. Morgan's favorite beach is Beasley Park because a) it's free and b) it's not very 'touristy;' it's got parking and a bathhouse, and that's it! A stone's throw away from Beasley Park is The Boardwalk, which is VERY touristy but has a good selection of restaurants right there on site. The island also has entertainment options for adults and kids alike, including putt putt, the Gulfarium, and a couple bars - don't skip on Swizzle Stick, a hidden gem!
McGuire's Irish Pub of Destin
Don't even think about coming to the panhandle without planning a trip to McGuire's! If Irish flavors aren't your style, worry not - they have THE BEST BRUNCH on the planet (Sundays 11-2). And the most bountiful. We're talking 6-egg omelets and each entrée comes with your choice of Irish Coffee (frozen or hot) and homemade French Quarter beignets. Yes, beignets seem odd for an Irish menu but they consistently hit the spot.
Destin Commons
The Destin Commons is to the panhandle what Hamburg is to Central Kentucky: an outdoor shopping complex with restaurants and entertainment sprinkled throughout. Most of Morgan's favorite stores have long since closed or relocated, but there's a still a lot to see and choose from. There is an AMC Theatre and Bass Pro Shop with a bowling alley and restaurant inside (Uncle Buck's Fishbowl & Grill), as well as a centrally-located playground with a splash pad, soft play area, and things to climb on, plus the mini train for an up-close and personal tour of Destin Commons!
Silver Sands Premium Outlets
If you came to shop and aren't facing an overage charge on your checked bag, this is the place to go! There is so much to choose from, but one of the stores you won't see in many other outlet malls is Sak's Fifth Avenue OFF FIFTH. It's tucked away in a corner so don't miss it!
Grand Boulevard
What is there to say but yet another premium shopping, dining, and playing locale? The difference is (for those staying in Sandestin): This one is 3 minutes from the resort! Favorites in this complex include Vin'Tij Food & Wine, Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar (and retail store!), and The Zoo Gallery. New Vision Theatres Boulevard 10 has a great dine-in option and there's also a Publix (grocery store) at one end. It's not listed in their directory, but The Craft Bar (gastropub) has a location here, in addition to Destin AND Fort Walton Beach!
Baytowne Wharf
The Village of Baytowne Wharf features an array of (you guessed it) boutiques, eateries, galleries, and nightlife, plus a bustling schedule of outdoor festivals and special events suited for the entire family, all within the gates of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort (literally across from the entrance to the Hilton). Sunset Bay Café (where Morgan and Bennett ate just prior to the surprise engagement!) has a fantastic brunch, and Village Door is BBQ by day, and the panhandle's #1 nightclub after the sun sets.